The McCormick Place is set to transform into a 21st century innovative power-play ground for high minded, forward-thinking, women influencers at the 2013 Black Women’s Expo, April 5-7.

It’s been a minute since I’ve attended, in fact I think the last time I went was way back when Angie Stone performed hits from her debut album on the main stage….what was that, more than a decade ago? Pretty much. I didn’t return due to either scheduling conflicts, or the programming content wasn’t too compelling. This year things seem to promise more. So I’m proud to promote as a blogger/ambassador.

The three-day weekend expo will feature purposed presentations on empowerment, business moves, and enterprise. It sounds guaranteed to sizzle with hot topics and conversations lead by some of the most influential entrepreneurs and coaches. Highlights in the 2013 lineup include a keynote by Susan L. Taylor, former editor-in-chief of Essence Magazine and founder of National CARES Mentoring Movement (as chair of Windy City CARES affiliate, she’s sorta like my boss lady); Kim Coles dishing her own brand of funny; Dr. Ian Smith is delivering his ultimate Shred Challenge; Sherri Shepherd dishes up close & personal on her juicy life; finally attendees will be treated to an intimate conversation with the living legend, Mr. Dick Gregory!

It’s a weekend of business, wellness and all things women in between, relationship talk is also in the mix. In fact, Ms. Da-Nay-Rockmore Macklin fidelity coach and author of Love After Adultery, is leading “Where Do We Go From Here?”an audacious panel discussion on conquering relationship challenges.

For me, I’m most overjoyed to see that the organizers recognize how imperative it is to include our young girls and teens in their power movement! There is plenty of programming dedicated “Just for Teens.” In fact, on Friday at 11a, young Girls Like Me can celebrate their sister-girls in a showcase of local teens who are “going above and beyond the norm to rock community service, entrepreneurship and innovation.” I hope every adult woman who attends will bring the girls in their lives for that one!